Written by Betsalel Shafa

On Saturday, President Trump announced that U.S. forces completed “very successful” airstrikes on Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, marking the first direct American assault on Iranian territory. B-2 stealth bombers carrying 30,000-pound bunker-busting bombs were deployed to breach underground nuclear tunnels at the three facilities. These bombs are able to drop through about 18m (60ft) of concrete or 61m (200ft) of earth before exploding, according to experts. These bombs were used specifically for these bases, which were considered secure, underground bunkers that some experts said that a tactical nuke would be needed to breach these bases. Iranian state media claims that personnel were evacuated and enriched uranium stocks were relocated to secure sites before the U.S. attack. Furthermore, the operation was conducted in coordination with Israel’s nine-day “Operation Rising Lion,” which has targeted Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure. Hiding in a fortified bunker, Iran’s Supreme Leader named 3 potential successors in case he is assassinated. Back at home, members of Congress and international leaders voiced split reactions on the strikes’ legality and potential fallout. Iran views retaliation against America and Israel, and is considering pursuing legal actions. Currently, Iran’s parliament has agreed to close the Strait of Hormuz, possibly affecting gas prices globally, and has changed up their strikes on Israel to spread out their missiles and forcing Israelis to be under lockdown for longer, potentially ruining their economy in the long run.